Retaining walls in Sacramento over 4 feet from base of footing require a building permit, engineered plans, and inspection under SMC Title 15.
Retaining walls in Sacramento follow CBC Section 105 and SMC Title 15. Walls retaining 4 feet or more of unbalanced fill (measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall) or any wall with a surcharge load (driveway, structure) require a building permit with engineered plans stamped by a licensed engineer. Walls under 4 feet still must not destabilize adjacent property or redirect drainage onto neighbors. Walls near the American River and steep lots get extra geotechnical review.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Sacramento code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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See how Sacramento's retaining walls rules stack up against other locations.
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